Bill > H0977

This bill aims to enhance behavioral health services and workforce in Florida by expanding the availability of second opinions for involuntary psychiatric admissions to all counties, regardless of population size, and allowing licensed physicians with specialized training or psychiatric nurses to provide these opinions. It also clarifies that only physicians licensed under specific chapters can dispense or prescribe controlled substances on the premises of a registered pain-management clinic, and establishes certification criteria for psychiatric nurses, including defining acts that could lead to denial or disciplinary action for their licenses. Additionally, the bill expresses legislative intent to establish a new psychiatry program in a Florida medical school to integrate primary care and psychiatry, and acknowledges the benefits of telemedicine for patient care and cost reduction in mental health and substance use disorder treatment.